Deco

(26 Cumberland Street) Constructed in 1942; then later rehabilitated in 1986 originally housed a wholesale magazine distributorship and warehouse. One of Charleston’s few urban examples of the Art Deco style. We can see the front brick façade with a central pavilion that is flanked by stylized pilasters terminating in decorative panels. The windows on either side are surmounted by decorative spandrels with a Greek key motif. The building sign font is classic Art Deco typography design by A.M. Cassandre’s influential work. Cassandre’s type is synonymous with the era in which it was created. Industrial, futuristic, streamlined and elegant characterize the appearance of this font. Paul Renner’s Futura, 1927 supersedes Cassandre’s Bifur, Acier, and Peignot font (above).